Cultivating A Deep Relationship With God Series

CULTIVATING A DEEP RELATIONSHIP WITH GOD

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: James 4:8

“Draw near to God and He will draw near to you.”

Supporting Texts:

Psalm 63:1-4

John 15:4-5

Philippians 3:10

Jeremiah 29:13

Psalm 42:1-2

INTRODUCTION:

A deep relationship with God is the essence of the Christian walk. It is the foundation for experiencing His presence, knowing His will, and living a life that pleases Him. However, cultivating such a relationship requires intentionality and dedication. It’s not enough to have surface-level encounters with God; we must desire and seek a profound connection with Him. This sermon will explore practical steps and biblical examples that show how we can develop a close, intimate relationship with God.

1. THE DESIRE FOR A DEEPER RELATIONSHIP WITH GOD

The first step toward cultivating a deep relationship with God is to have a burning desire for more of Him. This desire must go beyond seeking God for what He can give but focus on knowing Him for who He is.

a) Hunger for God’s Presence: True depth in our relationship with God begins with a hunger for His presence, a longing to be with Him (Psalm 63:1).

b) Thirst for Spiritual Growth: Like the psalmist, we must thirst for spiritual nourishment and growth, wanting to be filled with God’s Word and Spirit (Psalm 42:1-2).

c) Seeking to Know God More: Our pursuit should not be based solely on blessings but on knowing God intimately and understanding His nature (Philippians 3:10).

d) Consistency in Seeking God: Cultivating a deeper relationship requires a daily commitment to seek God, not just in times of crisis (Jeremiah 29:13).

e) Making God Your Priority: A deeper relationship with God comes when we prioritise Him over all other things in life (Matthew 6:33).

Biblical Example:

David (Psalm 27:4) sought the presence of God above all else. His desire to dwell in God’s house and behold His beauty demonstrated his heart’s longing for a deep, personal relationship with the Lord.

2. ABIDING IN CHRIST: THE FOUNDATION OF DEEP RELATIONSHIP

Jesus taught that a deep relationship with God is built upon abiding in Him. Abiding means to remain, to dwell continuously in Christ.

a) Staying Connected to the Vine: Just as branches remain connected to the vine to bear fruit, we must stay connected to Christ for spiritual nourishment (John 15:4-5).

b) Dependency on God: Abiding in Christ involves total dependence on Him for every aspect of our lives, knowing we can do nothing without Him (John 15:5).

c) Walking in Obedience: To abide in Christ means walking in obedience to His commands, which is essential to maintaining a deep relationship with Him (John 14:15).

d) Abiding through the Word: A deep relationship with God is sustained by abiding in His Word, meditating on it day and night (Joshua 1:8).

e) Abiding in Prayer: Consistent communication through prayer deepens our relationship with God, as we pour out our hearts to Him and listen for His voice (1 Thessalonians 5:17).

Biblical Example:

Jesus (Mark 1:35) often withdrew to solitary places to spend time with the Father. His continuous communion with God in prayer set an example of what it means to abide and maintain a deep relationship.

3. SPIRITUAL DISCIPLINES THAT DEEPEN OUR RELATIONSHIP WITH GOD

Spiritual disciplines are practices that help us cultivate a deeper walk with God. These disciplines are not merely religious rituals but are designed to draw us closer to God.

a) Prayer and Fasting: Prayer is our means of communication with God, and fasting intensifies our focus and reliance on Him (Matthew 6:6, Matthew 6:17-18).

b) Study of the Word: The Word of God is our guide for life, and studying it regularly helps us to know God’s heart and will (2 Timothy 3:16-17).

c) Worship: Worshipping God in spirit and truth draws us into His presence and aligns our hearts with His (John 4:23-24).

d) Solitude and Meditation: Spending quiet time with God, away from distractions, allows us to reflect on His goodness and hear from Him clearly (Psalm 46:10).

e) Confession and Repentance: Maintaining a pure heart through confession and repentance keeps our relationship with God unhindered by sin (1 John 1:9).

Biblical Example:

Daniel (Daniel 6:10) had a disciplined prayer life. Despite facing persecution, he remained steadfast in seeking God, and his deep relationship with God gave him boldness and favour.

4. INTIMACY WITH THE HOLY SPIRIT

The Holy Spirit plays a crucial role in helping us cultivate a deep relationship with God. He is our Comforter, Teacher, and Guide, leading us into deeper truth.

a) The Holy Spirit as Our Helper: The Holy Spirit helps us in our weaknesses and intercedes for us according to God’s will (Romans 8:26).

b) The Holy Spirit as Our Teacher: He teaches us all things and reminds us of Jesus’ words, deepening our understanding of God’s ways (John 14:26).